Abstract:

Reflux of duodenal contents into the stomach is a normal physiological event occurring most commonly at night but also in the fasting and postprandial daytime periods. Previously, the terms "bile reflux" and "alkaline reflux" have been used to describe this process. However, duodenal contents contain more than just "bile" and studies have shown that the term "alkaline reflux" is a misnomer since pH > 7 does not correlate with reflux of duodenal contents. Therefore, duodenogastroesophageal reflux (DGER) may be a more appropriate term to describe the pathological regurgitation of duodenal contents through the pylorus into the stomach with subsequent reflux into the esophagus.

Authors:

Michael F. Vaezi, M.D., Ph.D., University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL; Joel E. Richter, M.D., F.A.C.P., F.A.C.G., The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH

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